Counter Terrorism Police have disclosed that individuals as young as 15 have been apprehended for serving as proxies for foreign countries. The police cautioned that youngsters are enticed by nations like China, Russia, and Iran due to being cost-effective and easily replaceable assets. National Coordinator Vicki Evans of Counter Terrorism Police emphasized the alarming trend of using proxies, urging the public to remain vigilant.
Evans highlighted that there is no specific profile for a proxy, and individuals may unknowingly become targets in various settings such as workplaces or homes. She stressed that recruitment efforts transcend geographical boundaries and are prevalent in the UK. Addressing young people acting as proxies, Evans emphasized the potential legal consequences and the increased powers to combat such activities. Notably, five individuals sentenced since December 2023 have collectively received over 50 years in prison, indicating the severity of the law enforcement response.
Following the Royal Assent of the National Security (State Threats) Bill, which grants new powers to the Home Secretary to counter hostile activities by foreign states and their proxies, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood affirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the nation and communities from external threats. Mahmood underscored the significance of the new legislation in dismantling and deterring hostile activities, empowering law enforcement and intelligence agencies to safeguard communities, institutions, and democratic principles.
The enactment of the National Security Act 2023 has equipped police and intelligence agencies with enhanced tools to identify and disrupt hostile activities, leading to successful prosecutions. Noteworthy cases include the convictions of individuals like Dylan Earl and Jake Reeves for involvement in an arson attack in east London and Peter Wai and Chung Biu Yuen for targeting Hong Kong residents in the UK.
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